The Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE) has approved eight new energy storage projects, totaling 800 MW of capacity. This development marks a key step in modernizing Italy’s electricity system, promoting greater integration of renewable sources and ensuring energy supply during peak demand periods.

It is worth noting that the government is committed to boosting this technology with new mechanisms, such as the MACSE auction by Terna, scheduled for September 30.

One of the main projects approved is Melfi BESS, developed by ACL SPV 4 S.r.l., with a capacity of 252 MW. Located in Melfi (PZ), 7.5 km from the city center, this storage system will be subject to strict environmental and safety controls. Its connection to the electric grid will utilize existing infrastructure, facilitating its integration without requiring major modifications to the national electricity system.

The second-largest project is Candela BESS, led by Edison S.p.A., with a capacity of 160 MW. This system will be located in Candela (FG), in the Puglia region, and will consist of 232 storage modules, a 400 kV substation, and an interconnection infrastructure that will maintain its current setup with the Rete di Trasmissione Nazionale (RTN). Construction is expected to take 33 months.

Following in the list of large-scale protects continue Bear03, with a capacity of 100 MW, developed by HEPV31 S.r.l. in Latiano (BR). This system will include 184 storage units, 29 conversion groups, and 17 step-up transformers, with a high-voltage connection at 380 kV. Its integration into the national grid will depend on expanding the 380/150 kV transformation station in Latiano.

Also, with a significant capacity is Storage for the Future, with 99 MW, developed by Storage For The Future S.r.l. in Riardo (CE). This system will consist of 99 battery containers and 25 power stations, with its connection being established through a 36 kV substation, ensuring optimal energy distribution into the grid.

Another key project is Ferrovia BESS, with 90 MW, developed by Ferrovia S.r.l. in Cancello ed Arnone (CE). Its infrastructure will include 180 battery containers, 30 transformation stations, and 2,160 HVAC conditioning units for the batteries. The system will be connected to the grid through a 380/150/36 kV substation, previously approved, ensuring its operational viability.

For its part, the company GreenGo is positioning itself in the storage market for the MACSE auction with two BESS systems:Montagna BESS and Tagliata BESS.

Montagna, with 30 MW and a storage capacity of 120 MWh, will be located in Maida (CZ). Its infrastructure will include 162 storage cubes and a 150/30 kV substation, connecting to the national grid via a 380/150 kV substation. Meanwhile, Tagliata BESS, with 50 MW for a 200 MWh storage cycle, will be installed in Foggia (FG). Its configuration will feature low- and medium-voltage lines, a 150/30 kV substation, and a 150 kV overhead connection.

With these additions, the capacity authorized by the Italian IPP developer reaches 129.5 MW, with an energy contribution of 516 MWh eligible for MACSE in the Southern zone.

Fabio Amico, a Board Member who has overseen GreenGo’s industrial development, commented:
“After our first AU BESS with Cuvelli, today we are strengthening GreenGo’s presence in the upcoming MACSE auctions. Cuvelli, Tagliata, and Montagna represent our first major batch of BESS projects, totaling around 130 MW. These initiatives are located near other RES plants, extremely close to existing Terna substations—key nodes in the national power grid for the development of renewable energy plants.”

He added: “The rapid authorization process, completed within two years of submitting the applications, demonstrates our ability to build strategic energy infrastructure within a competitive timeframe. Our goal is to participate in the first MACSE auction with the highest number of projects: so far, we have three plants, but there could be more surprises to strengthen our position, as well as mid-term backup strategies.”

In an other hand, the smallest approved project by MASE is Accumulo Palmori, with 18 MW, led by SKI B A0 S.r.l. in Lucera (FG). Its infrastructure will consist of 90 battery containers of 1 MWh each, a 30/150 kV substation, and a 150 kV overhead connection, optimizing its integration into the power grid.

These 800 MW of storage capacity represent a major milestone in Italy’s energy transition, enhancing system stability and facilitating the integration of renewable sources. With the MACSE auction by Terna on the horizon, the country continues to move toward a more sustainable and efficient energy model.